Journal Articles (Agriculture)

Permanent URI for this collectionhttp://hdl.handle.net/20.500.12280/215

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Abundance, Distribution and Ecological Impacts of Invasive Plant Species in Maputo Special Reserve, Mozambique
(Academic Journals, 2020-08) Byabasaija, Syliver; Ribeiro, Natasha; Cavane, Eunice; Salimo, Matola
With a few exceptions, comprehensive assessment of invasive plants species (IPSs) list that invade Maputo Special Reserve’s natural ecosystems is lacking. Some available data are either preliminary or localised, or focus on agricultural weeds that leave an ecological gap about IPSs. In order to establish this gap, a study was conducted to asses the impact of IPSs in Maputo Special Reserve. A stratified random sample was used to allocate five land use and land cover strata. Plots of 20 m diameter formed by two replicates were established in transects within plot of 160 m × 80 m and each invasive plants species number were counted and recorded. At every 10 km distance of the road side in different reserve directions, field plots of 10 m × 10 m were also established location and coordinates where invasive plants species occur recorded. With the ARCGIS 10.3 software, IPSs location coordinates were positioned on the map to create location. Data analysis was through calculation of diversity and evenness indices (Shannon-wiener (H') and Simpson (D'). Student’s t -test was used to compare diversity differences between the invaded and un-invaded sites. The result indicated the occurrence of 26 IPSs across all strata with Lantana camara and Eucalyptus sp being dominant. Settlement stratum recorded the highest level of invasive plants compared to other strata. Student t test on differences in Shannon-wiener diversity (H‘) between invaded and un-invaded areas showed that there was significant difference in species diversity (t 0.05(2) 170 =1.84 0.05< P< 0.10). The threat of IPSs is increasing at an alarming rate, thus control methods have to be designed to stop further spreading into Maputo Special Reserve.
Accuracy of Using Leaf Blade Length and Leaf Blade Width Measurements to Calculate the Leaf Area of Solanum Aethiopicum Shum Group
(2018) Nakanwagi, Mildred Julian; Sseremba, Godfrey; Nahamya, Pamela Kaboda; Masanza, Michael; Balyejusa, Elizabeth Kizito
Leaf area is an important parameter when determining growth response under normal as well as stressed environments. No attempt had been made to come up with an affordable but accurate alternative of measuring leaf size in research neglected leafy vegetable crops. Other techniques such as use of leaf area meters are either destructive, expensive or both. A study was conducted to determine leaf area in like-shaped leaves of research neglected crop plants, taking case ofS. Aethiopicum Shum group (SAS) germplasm. Data was collected on 552individual plants (including pure lines and hybrids) at eight weeks after planting where a third fully open leaf from top of each plant was considered. Leaf blade length (LBL) and leaf blade width (LBW) were linearly measured while leaf area(LA) was measured using a leaf area meter. This was followed by correlation and regression analysis of LA with LBL, LBW, and LBLþLBW. Correlation coefficients atp<0.001 ranged between 0.84 and 0.92, 0.79 and 0.88, 0.86 and0.95 for total germplasm, pure lines and hybrids, respectively. The coefficient determination (R2) ranged between 0.72 and 0.92. The best prediction for LA wasobtained with hybrid plants (LA¼-165.82þ5.38LBLþ16.17LBW) at R2of92%. The implication is that we can accurately and affordably predict LA fromduo measurements of LBL and LBW in SAS as well as in other crops having similar leaf shapes.
Agro-Related Policy Awareness and Their Influence in Adoption of New Agricultural Technologies; A Case of Tissue Culture Banana in Uganda
(Academic Research Publishing Group, 2019) Wanyana, Barbra; Murongo, Marius Flarian; Mwine, Julius; Wamani, Sam
Adoption of banana tissue culture in Uganda still remains low despite the availability of policies geared to enhancing agriculture. A survey was carried out on 115 smallholder farmers in Central Uganda to establish the influence of agro-related policies in tissue culture banana adoption between January and July 2018. Results from the study indicated that 83.8% of the respondents were aware about the Plan for Modernization of Agriculture policy as compared to National Agricultural Policy (5.5%), National Development Plan (13.12%) and Agricultural Sector Development Strategy and Investment Plan (3.3%). Age, gender and education level all exhibited weak correlations in relation to policy awareness while generally, the study found out that awareness of the of the policies did not significantly influence farmer’s adoption of tissue culture banana in central Uganda (P>0.05). We conclude that most of the agro-related polices were on paper and minimal efforts were in place to enhance their awareness amongst small holder farmers. We therefore recommend that increased awareness of agro-related policies to the farmers as well as integration of farmer interests in policy formulation are paramount in order to achieve wide uptake of agro-technologies like banana tissue culture.
Analysis of sesame seed production and export trends; challenges and strategies towards increasing production in Uganda
(EDP Sciences, 2021-01-01) Wacal, Cosmas; Basalirwa, Daniel; Okello-Anyanga, Walter; Murongo, Marius Flarian; Namirembe, Caroline; Malingumu, Richard
Sesame (Sesamum indicum L.) is one of the most ancient oilseed crops cultivated for its edible oil and uses in food. Sesame seeds are very nutritious and confer health benefits. However, its potential production in Uganda has not been fully realized. The objective of this review was to summarize the trends in sesame production, export quantity, export value, challenges, and strategies for sustainable sesame seed production in Uganda. The review revealed the sesame seed production and area harvested generally increased from 1996 to 2007 but significantly decreased between 2008 and 2018. The review also revealed that while the export quantities and values were low, they gradually increased from 2009 to 2016. The decreased production between 2008 and 2016 could have been due to challenges such as pests and diseases, loss of soil fertility, prolonged drought, poor agronomic practices, poor yielding varieties, and lack of access to credit. Therefore, it is recommended to improve breeding programs and soil management practices; strengthen agricultural credits and extension services to support marketing of sesame seeds; and improve agronomic practices and farmer knowledge on improved techniques such as sowing methods, plant spacing, intercropping practices, pests and disease control measures. These could boost sesame production in Uganda given the high domestic and global demand for sesame seeds and provide an opportunity to expand sesame production throughout Uganda. Research should focus on how to increase seed yield on farmers’ fields and bridge the yield gap between researchers and farmers while adopting good agronomic practices.
Assessing land degradation neutrality in data scarce semi-arid drylands agroecosystems to improve land resources management: a case study in Matabeleland North Province of Zimbabwe
(Europe PMC Plus, 2023-07-20) Chisadza, Bright; Gwate, Onalenna; Musinguzi, Simon Peter
Semi-arid agroecosystems have a crucial function in supplying food and ecosystem services. However, these ecosystems are under severe threat due to land degradation. To enhance our understanding of environmental trends and their causes and to identify more sustainable land management techniques, it is important to track land degradation in space and time. This study uses land cover, soil organic carbon, and land productivity dynamics maps to evaluate land degradation neutrality (as per Sustainable Development Goal 15, indicator 15.3.1). In this regard, we employed the trends.earth tool in QGIS 3.3, utilising the European Space Agency Climate Change Initiative (ESA CCI) classified LULC maps for 1992, 2000, 2010, and 2020 to assess land degradation. Additionally, we predicted 2050 LULC maps using the MOLUSCE plugin in QGIS, which integrates an artificial neural network (ANN) in cellular automata (CA) modeling (CA-ANN) based on the 2015 LULC map and independent variables such as digital elevation model (DEM) and slope. Our results indicated a significant decrease in bare areas (71%) and an increase in settlements (built-up areas) (163%) between 1992 and 2020. Furthermore, the predicted land cover map shows a significant increase in bare land (238%) and settlements (72%), accompanied by a decrease in water bodies (23%) and forested areas (3.5%). In terms of land degradation, approximately 26.46% of the province exhibited degraded land, accounting for approximately 20,146.35 km , while approximately 59.55% (45,337.84 km ) of the land remained stable. Land cover conversions, particularly from forests to grasslands and settlements, are among the potential drivers of land degradation. Identifying land cover transitions and assessing land degradation is paramount for effective monitoring and planning. By understanding these dynamics, targeted interventions can be developed to mitigate land degradation and promote sustainable land use practices in semi-arid agroecosystems.
Assessing the effectiveness of ethnomedicinal products on banana weevils using REML
(Science Publishing Group, 2014) Bwogi, Godfrey; Mwine, Julius; Jumba, Francis; Murongo, Marius; Njoroge, Grace Njeri; Kabango, Freddie; Mutumba, Pross Mutumba Nakulima
This study investigated the effect of applying selected banana pest control treatments on management of banana weevils. The data was collected on 283 banana plants picked at random; from 29 farmers selected using a snowball sampling technique. Treatments used were ethnomedicinal products, synthetic chemicals, cultural practices in plantation planted from suckers and those planted from tissue culture. Since data was spatially collected, it was analyzed using Restricted Maximum likelihood Estimator (REML). REML was used to estimate the PCI after a square root transformation. The statistical analysis indicated a significant difference between plantations where synthetic chemicals, clean planting materials (tissue culture), cultural practices and ethnomedicinal products were used. There was also significant variation resulting from different varieties grown. However, there was no significant variation resulting from the response of different varieties to the different treatments. Results also indicated that garden where the cleaning materials had been used had the least percentage of banana weevil infection. This study found out that there was no significant difference in damage caused by banana weevils in banana plantations where synthetic chemicals and ethnomedicinal extracts were applied. Thus given the results, the study concluded that ethnomedicinal products can be used by farmers to manage banana weevils. The study recommends that further studies should be carried out to assess efficacy of the identified potential plants with pesticidal properties under controlled experiment.
Assessing the effectiveness of ethnomedicinal products on banana weevils using REML
(Science Publishing Group, 2014) Bwogi, Godfrey; Mwine, Julius; Jumba, Francis; Murongo, Marius; Njoroge, Njeri Grace; Kabango, Freddie; Mutumba, Nakulima Kyeswa Pross
This study investigated the effect of applying selected banana pest control treatments on management of banana weevils. The data was collected on 283 banana plants picked at random; from 29 farmers selected using a snowball sampling technique. Treatments used were ethnomedicinal products, synthetic chemicals, cultural practices in plantation planted from suckers and those planted from tissue culture. Since data was spatially collected, it was analyzed using Restricted Maximum likelihood Estimator (REML). REML was used to estimate the PCI after a square root transformation. The statistical analysis indicated a significant difference between plantations where synthetic chemicals, clean planting materials (tissue culture), cultural practices and ethnomedicinal products were used. There was also significant variation resulting from different varieties grown. However, there was no significant variation resulting from the response of different varieties to the different treatments. Results also indicated that garden where the cleaning materials had been used had the least percentage of banana weevil infection. This study found out that there was no significant difference in damage caused by banana weevils in banana plantations where synthetic chemicals and ethnomedicinal extracts were applied. Thus given the results, the study concluded that ethnomedicinal products can be used by farmers to manage banana weevils. The study recommends that further studies should be carried out to assess efficacy of the identified potential plants with pesticidal properties under controlled experiment.
An Assessment of Livestock Technology Packaging and Dissemination in Rukungiri District
(2012) Musinguzi, Simon Peter
The study was motivated by the fact that despite availability of technologies capable of solving farmers’ constraints adoption of relevant technology has been insufficient to address the constraints. This research set out to examine prospects of livestock technology in enhancing farm productivity, through assessing the livestock technology packaging and dissemination methods. Both qualitative and quantitative methods using PRA techniques and a questionnaire respectively were used. One hundred questionnaires were administered. The study revealed the common livestock species raised in the study area were goats (32%), cattle (39%), pigs (16%) and chicken (6%). Technology adoption emphasized de-worming (37%), acaricide use (22%), pasture improvement (20%) and farm structures (10%). Livestock production was particularly constrained by limited grazing area (52%), livestock diseases (17 %) poor breeds (11%), and lack of dry season feeds (7%). Farmer exchange visits (45%) and trainings (32%) were the most effective technology dissemination approaches. Improved feeds and breeds arehence the key technology needs for livestock. It was noted that whereas there exists relevant technologies that can address farmers’ constraints there is general lack of information about their existence. It was recommended that technology promotion be refocused to address needs particularly lack of improved feeds and breeds. These should be implemented through farmer training, exchange visits supplemented by appropriate radio messages.
Assessment of Mobility Dynamics and Re-settlement Outcomes of Land Evictees in Uganda’s Oil Exploration Areas; the Case of Hoima and Buliisa Districts
(Global Advanced Research Journals, 2017-08) Ssekandi, Joseph; Mburu, John; Wasonga, Oliver
Land evictions present a compelling global challenge to food production and food sovereignty. Uganda’s promised oil potential came along with the risk of marginalizing thousands of indigenous people evicted from their lands and threatened livelihoods of the affected households. This chapter investigated the post-eviction resettlement options by households and the livelihood outcome of the resettlement decisions. The study used a socio economic survey to collect data from land evictees; the data was used to determine the resettlement options and outcomes of the resettlement decisions. Results indicate three distinct resettlement options: national park, urban area, and re-integration into the community commons. Results indicate a significant drop in income for small holder farmers, decrease in per capita land holding and integration of the small holder farmers into nearby communities when compared to the other livelihood groups. The study concludes that resettlement options and outcomes are significantly determined by pre eviction livelihood patterns. Pastoralist retained pre eviction livelihood activities more than any other livelihood group. Small holder farmers had a higher risk of dropping out of this livelihood. The study recommends developing a deliberate strategy for resettling evictees that takes into consideration their previous livelihoods.
Assessment of Staking in a Climbing Bean Production System as Practiced by Smallholder Farmers in Uganda
(World Science Research Journals, 2017-01-03) Takusewanya, Rose; Namayanja, Annet; Bwogi, Godfrey Vianney; Mwine, Julius; Odong, Thomas L.
Adoption of climbing bean production in Eastern Africa is faced with the challenge of finding suitable staking materials which is prerequisite for high yield potential. The objective of this study was to contribute to understanding the trends in staking and staking requirements in climbing bean production and the related ecological management practices in the Ugandan highland agro-ecosystem. Sampling was one using a four - stage sampling procedure, based on 150 households selected randomly each in Kabale and Kisoro districts. Results revealed that long term maturing trees such as eucalyptus were the most commonly used types of stakes (92.7%) in Kabale. On the other hand in Kisoro, it was stems of elephant grass (62%) followed by long term maturing trees (50.6%), shrubs mainly vernonia (30%) and maize plant, maize and sorghum Stover (22%). The study revealed several challenges small holders faced with takes and staking such as costly stakes, breaking of stakes due to heavy pod load or becoming old, theft, multiple uses of stakes (fire wood, building), termites and the cumbersome activities (cutting, transporting). However, some farmers have not perceived staking as a problem and have developed some initiatives to cope with the shortage. Further research on the sources of stakes is recommended.
Assessment of the Contribution of Home Gardens to Plant Diversity Conservation in Thies Region, Senegal
(Springer Link, 2021-08-10) Naigaga, Hellen; Ssekandi, Joseph; Ngom, Ablaye; Diouf, Ndongo; Diouf, Jules; Dieng, Birane; Mbaye, Mame Samba; Noba, Kandioura
Home gardens are reservoirs of biological diversity. This study assessed plant diversity conservation in home gardens of Thies region (Senegal) with the aim of documenting species composition and diversity in the home gardens. A sample of 30 home gardens was selected from the three main departments of the region and was used to collect plant species data. Data were collected from home gardens which were selected based on recommendations from the village leaders. Techniques used were plant inventory, participatory observations and individual interviews. Species classifcation and nomenclature were based on Angiosperm Phylogeny Group IV botanical classifcation system, Senegal analytical fora and the world plant list. Microsoft Ofce excel was used for some calculations, tabulation and drawing graphs. Comparison of efect between diferent variables was analysed in analytical software R using simple linear regression, and plant diversity was calculated using the Shannon diversity index. A total of 96 plant species belonging to 86 genera, and 43 families were identifed. Out of these, 34 were trees, 33 were shrubs, and 29 were herbs. 95 were angiosperms with 79 dicotyledonous and 16 monocotyledonous, and only one (1) was a gymnosperm. Species from Fabaceae family were the highest in number (9 species) whereas Citrus limon was the most frequent (80%) species in the home gardens. The results of the Shannon index indicate that there is high species diversity in the home gardens of Thies region (H1=3.9365) with moderate equitability (E=0.5968). The gardeners were 73% men and 27% women. At department level, 66 species (38 families) were recorded in Mbour, 54 species (33 families) in Tivaoune and 50 species (26 families) in Thies department. The study indicates that home gardens are agriculture systems ecologically important for plant diversity conservation, they have a higher potential for ex-situ conservation of plants in the agro ecosystem.
Awareness and Need for Knowledge of Health and Safety Among Diary Farmers Interviewed in Uganda
(Frontiers in Public Health, 2016-06) Kiggundu Ssali, Tonny; Lunner-Kolstrup, Christina
Safe working conditions are essential for healthy living and for ensuring food security among farmers and farm communities in developing countries. There is limited research on this topic, and documentation is essential to understand and change patterns of human health and safety. In May 2014, six male and female farmers on four dairy farms in Uganda and a female veterinarian were interviewed about their awareness and attitudes to agricultural risk factors, health, and safety. In addition, transect walks were conducted on the four dairy farms. The dairy farmers reported health and safety concerns, e.g., diarrhea, coughs, fever, cuts while using machetes in plantations, bruises when handling animals, and dizziness and poisoning symptoms from using different agrochemicals, and considered these an occupational hazard. The most important topic mentioned was the use of agrochemicals and drugs on livestock. The farmers spray their animals with insecticides to prevent ticks, lice, tsetse flies, and other biting nuisance flies, using a backpack or hand sprayer. Spraying is conducted without personal protection equipment, which is considered too expensive and difficult to obtain. The farmers reported that they usually feel dizzy, vomit, and have pain and a burning feeling in their face and eyes after spraying. The symptoms are sometimes so severe that they require treatment. In such cases, the farmers buy medication without a prescription at the local drugstore, where the storekeeper often has limited or no knowledge of agrochemicals or drugs except for dosage. Agricultural health and safety training in the region is non-existent, and the farmers expressed a need and desire for improvements in this area. The level of knowledge and awareness of agricultural health and safety risks, disease, and injury prevention among the Ugandan dairy farmers interviewed was low. The farmers mentioned few agriculture-related complaints, injuries, or diseases except poisoning from using agrochemicals. Training on health and safety in Ugandan agriculture is urgently needed.
Biotechnology in Organic Agriculture in Africa: Myth or Oversight?
(African Journals Online, 2009) Ssekyewa, Charles; Muwanga M. Kiggundu
Biotechnology refers to scienti fi c methods and practi ces that are based on biological systems or components. Its applicati ons vary from simple system to amino acids (i.e. DNA and RNA) based applicati ons and are relevant to many stages of commodity value chains. Whereas the simple applicati ons are well understood, contemporary advancements into these applicati ons have gone to deeper levels of innovati on, dealing with cells, chromosomes, nucleoti des and genes. Since these determine the cellular functi ons that infl uence behaviour and inheritance, any biotechnological method applied at this level is very sensiti ve, because it might result into undesirable alterati ons in the traits and behaviour of organisms. Notwithstanding its likely contributi ons, therefore, this level of innovati on raises scepti cism against biotechnology among the organic agriculture community in Africa. Thus, this paper examines the applicability of these innovati ons in the development of organic agriculture on the conti nent.
Combined effects of indigenous Arbuscular Mycorrhizal Fungi (AMF) and NPK fertilizer on growth and yields of maize and soil nutrient availability
(MDPI Company, 2023-01-25) Fofana Fall, Abdoulaye; Nakabonge, Grace; Ssekandi, Joseph; Founoune-Mboup, Hassna; Badji, Arfang; Ndiaye, Abibatou; Ndiaye, Malick; Kyakuwa, Paul; Anyoni Otim, Godfrey; Kabaseke, Clovis; Kipkemoi, Amos Ronoh; Ekwangu, Joseph
The excessive application of mineral fertilizers in maize cultivation leads to progressive soil contamination in the long term and increases the cost of production. An alternative to reduce over-fertilization is to perform a partial replacement with microbes that promote nutrition and growth, such as Arbuscular Mycorrhizal Fungi (AMF). A pot experiment which was followed by two field experiments was performed with and without the application of indigenous AMF in combination with five nitrogen–phosphorus–potassium (NPK) fertilization rates (100% NPK = N120P60K60; 75% NPK = N90P45K45; 50% NPK = N60P30K30; 25% NPK = N30P15K15; control = N0P0K0). The objective was to investigate whether the soil application of indigenous mycorrhizal fungi inoculum combined with NPK fertilization can provide higher maize yields and soil-available N, P, and K than chemical fertilization can alone. The greenhouse results showed that the application of AMF with a 50% NPK treatment significantly increased the plant’s growth, root colonization, leaf chlorophyll content, and N, P, and K tissue content. The results from the field conditions showed that there was a highly significant yield after the treatment with AMF + 50% NPK. The study also revealed that mycorrhizal fungi inoculation increased the available soil N and P concentrations when it was combined with a 50% NPK dose. This suggests that the inoculation of fields with AM fungi can reduce the chemical fertilizer application by half, while improving soil chemistry. The results suggested that AMF inoculation can be used in integrated soil fertility management strategies.
The Contribution of Agro-ecology as a Solution to Hunger in the World: A Review
(Asian Journal of Agricultural Extension, Economics & Sociology, 2019-06-01) Adidja, M. W.; Mwine, J.; Majaliwa, J. G. M.; Ssekandi, J.
Evidence from different studies has revealed a great contribution of agro-ecology in solving the world hunger sustainably. Agro-ecology addresses the problems and limitations of industrial agriculture such as inequalities, increased poverty and malnutrition rate, and environment degradation especially climate change; which are the roots causes of hunger in the world and hinder its eradication. In meeting these goals, agro-ecology raises the availability of food by augmenting yields considerably and increasing urban agriculture; it rises the accessibility of food by decreasing poverty; and upsurges the appropriateness of food by offering a food which is of high-quality nutritional, healthy and socially accepted or adopted. This farming system also contributes to water security and to the respect of the right to water and hygiene by lessening the pressure on water resources, growing the flexibility to water shortage and diminishing the frequency of battles among conflicting water uses; and therefore, enhances food security and the apprehension of the right to adequate food. Agro-ecology contributes in conserving biodiversity and natural resources, in increasing resilience to climate change and combating the extenuation challenge, in growing control of peasants upon agricultural and food systems, and in empowering Women as well.
Contribution of Backyard Farming to Food and Income Security: Case of Kampala Metropolitan
(ProQuest, 2020) Kirungi, Macklean; Sseremba, Godfrey; Tugume, Katarimpika Joab; Murongo, Marius Flavian; Ssekandi, Joseph; Tedson Julius Mwine
Food insecurity, poverty, environmental degradation and climatic change are some of the major challenges facing the world. The urban poor are among Ugandans facing food insecurity and malnutrition due to several causes such as job insecurity, low wages and limited farming opportunities. Agriculture has been reported as the biggest contributor to poverty reduction and food security. This study aimed at estimating the contribution of backyard farming to household food provision and income and the sustainability of such practice in Kampala Metropolitan. The study was conducted in the urban (<10Km) and peri-urban areas (10-20Km) area of Kampala metropolitan area. The study found that Backyard farming significantly affected household food consumption scores, coping strategy index and income but not household dietary diversity scores (HDDS). However, these benefits were found to accrue less among the poor and less privileged.
The Cost of Routine Immunization Services in a Poor Urban Setting in Kampala, Uganda: Findings of a Facility-Based Costing Study
(2018) Kiiza, Daniel; Kisakye, A.; Chebrot, I.; Kwesiga, B; Okello, D.; Kabwongera, E.; Basaza, R.
Reducing infant and under-five mortality by use of costeffectivestrategies like immunization continues to be a challenge, particularly in resource limited settings. Strategic planning for immunization requires credible costing information to estimate available funding, allocate funds within the program and avoid funding shortfalls. This study assessed the total and unit costs of providing routine immunization in health facilities in Kampala. This was a retrospective descriptive cost analysis study that applied a bottom-up, ingredients-based costing methodology which identified costs from the perspective of the health service providers. The cost of providing immunization services in health facilities in Kawempe Division in the financial year 2015/2016 was determined using relevant data which was collected using an Excel questionnaire adapted from the CostIt software of the World Health Organization. The analysis was also based on the same CostIt software. The average total facility immunization costs were USD 14,415.1 with a range of 8,205.3 at private for profit to USD 47,094.9 at public health facilities. Vaccines and supplies were the main cost driver accounting for 63.6% followed by personnel costs at 24.0%. Routine facility based immunization had the highest cost with an average of 47.9% followed by outreach services at 32.3%. The average cost per dose administered was USD 1.4 with a range of USD 1.0 in larger health centres (HCIV) to 1.5 in HCIII (medium-sized HC or dispensary). The average cost per DPT3 immunized child was USD 20.0 with arrange of USD 12.6 in HCIV to 22.0 in HCIII. The findings show a great variance between facility ownership and levels. The study found that the recurrent costs were significantlyhigher than capital costs and this was across all facilities. Vaccines and personnel costs were the two main cost drivers. Routine facility based immunization was the costliest activity followed by outreaches with social mobilization being the least. The cost per dose administered and DPT3 immunized child were dependent on outputs with high output health facilities having less unit costs compared to facilities with less out outputs. Private health facilities had higherunit costs compared to publicly owned health facility
Diversity and distribution of African indigenous vegetable species in Uganda
(Academic Journals, 2017-11) Sseremba, Godfrey; Kabod, Nahamya Pamela; Katwijukye Kasharu, Apolo; Nkalubo Jaggwe, John; Masanza, Michael; Balyejusa Kizito, Elizabeth
African indigenous vegetable species (AIVS) provide a means of livelihood to many urban and periurban dwellers in Uganda. It was thus deemed necessary to understand the existing diversity and distribution of the traditional African vegetable species as a basis for recommending conservation and utilization strategies against biodiversity loss. A field survey was conducted in the four major agroecological zones of Uganda to provide information on a recent abundance of the various AIVS. Results from the survey showed that the Solanaceae (43.4%), Amaranthaceae (15.5%) and Malvaceae (11.6%) were the most prevalent families out of seven different families encountered. Twenty-three (23) species, a number lower than that initially reported in literature and distributed unevenly in the different regions were identified. Majority of the species were the indigenous rather than introduced vegetable species. Firstly, the study is informative of the superior importance of Solanaceous species compared to other AIVS. Secondly, the survey results indicate that the AIVS are becoming increasingly more important in Uganda than their introduced counterparts since all the 43.4% that composed the Solanaceae majority were of indigenous type. Research efforts should be devoted towards improved variety development and germplasm conservation to prevent a possible biodiversity loss of the most important AIVS for increased household incomes and nutrient security among the resource-poor majority in Uganda and other sub-Saharan Africa countries.
Effect of Co-applied Corncob Biochar with Farmyard Manure and NPK Fertilizer on Tropical Soil
(Science Direct, 2021-09) Aporia, Samuel Obeng; Byalebeka, John; Murongo, Marius; Ssekandi, Joseph; Noel, Gordon Logura
Biochar has shown a positive impact on degraded soils. However, the effect of co-applied biochar with farmyard manure and inorganic fertilizer on soil chemical characteristics, yield, nutrient constituent and economic analysis of cucumber did not receive adequate research attention in sub-Saharan Africa. A field experiment was conducted on sandy clay loam soil with biochar at 10 t/ha individually or combined with farmyard manure and NPK using cucumber as a test crop. The co-applied biochar with the 5t/ha farmyard manure and NPK significantly increased soil pH, total nitrogen, available phosphorus, total organic carbon and effective cation exchangeable capacity than the sole application of the NPK fertilizer and the farmyard manure. Cucumber yield, net income, nutrient content such as nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium were significantly higher in the co-applied biochar with farmyard manure and NPK than the sole application of the NPK and the manure. Co-applied biochar with inorganic NPK showed higher soil available phosphorus, nitrogen, cucumber yield and net income than the co-applied biochar with farmyard manure. Similarly, co-applied biochar with NPK plots observed higher macronutrient constituents than the co-applied biochar with farmyard manure. These findings revealed that combined biochar with NPK proved to be an effective reclamation strategy to improve low fertile soils in the tropics than the co-applied biochar with farmyard manure.
Effect of linear view approach of weed management in agro-ecosystem: A review
(Academic Journals, 2020-12-18) Muli, K. Gideon; Apori, O. Samuel; Ssekandi, Joseph; Murongo, Marius; Hanyabui, Emmanuel
Weeds are considered a pest that is detrimental to human interest. Weeds compete with cultivated and desirable plants for space, soil nutrient, and sunlight and soil moisture thereby reducing crop productivity. Weeds also serve as a host for pests and pathogens that cause plant diseases. Weeds typically produce large numbers of seeds, assisting their spread, and rapidly invade disturbed sites. Seeds spread into natural and disturbed environments, via wind, waterways, people, vehicles, machinery, birds and other animals. To prevent the effect of weeds on crop productivity, farmers mostly use a linear approach for weed management. The linear view approach aims at eradicating weeds without concern about the environment. This paper reviews the effects of the linear view approach of weed management in the agro-ecosystem. A review using forty-one articles reveals that herbicides application, bush burning and soil tillage are the most often used linear view approach for controlling weeds in the farm ecosystem. The paper highlights the contribution of these weed control methods to climate change through loss of biodiversity, pollution of water bodies, soil degradation, deterioration of fruit quality and release of carbon dioxide to the atmosphere.

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